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HomeMy WebLinkAbout10/09/2014 - City Arts Commission - 01 Draft MinutesDRAFT Newport Beach City Arts Commission Meeting Minutes Thursday, September 11, 2014 – 5:00p.m. City Council Chambers Convened at 5:00 p.m. I. CALL MEETING TO ORDER Chair Goldberg called the meeting to order. II. ROLL CALL Commissioners Present: Rita Goldberg, Chair Arlene Greer, Vice Chair Caroline Logan, Secretary Judy Chang Robert Smith Charles Ware Council Present: Council Member, Nancy Gardner Staff Present: Tim Hetherton, Library Services Director Dave Curtis, Library Services Manager Elaine McMillion, Administrative Support Specialist III. PUBLIC COMMENTS Jim Mosher stated he would like to comment on Items No. A4, B2 and B4. Chair Goldberg noted that public comments will be allowed after each presentation. IV. APPROVAL OF MINUTES - DRAFT Minutes - August 14, 2014 Corrections were presented for incorporation into the August 14, 2014, minutes. Motion made by Secretary Logan, seconded by Vice Chair Greer, and carried (6-0-0-0) to approve the minutes of August 14, 2014, as amended. AYES: Chang, Goldberg, Greer, Logan, Smith, Ware NOES: None ABSTENTIONS: None ABSENT: None V. CURRENT BUSINESS A. CONSENT CALENDAR Chair Goldberg questioned why the Ben Carlson Memorial Statue item is on the Consent Calendar. Library Services Director Hetherton stated that staff felt it is not an actionable item at this time and noted the need to review the vision for the project and in light of the City’s overall plans to memorialize Ben Carlson. 1 DRAFT Council Member Gardner noted that the Commission may remove items from the Consent Calendar for separate discussion and consideration. In response to Chair Goldberg's inquiry, Mr. Hetherton reported that Mr. Yocam and Mr. Janz are prepared to make a presentation on the matter. Secretary Logan requested that Item No. A4 be moved from the Consent Calendar for separate discussion and consideration. This item was pulled from the Consent Calendar. 1. Correspondence and Press - Review of any Arts Commission correspondence and/or marketing materials that have been received. 2. Financial Report - Review of attached financial information. 3. Cultural Arts Activities - Monthly review of cultural arts activities from the Library Administrative Office for upcoming Library and City arts events and services. Motion made by Vice Chair Greer, seconded by Commissioner Smith, and carried (6-0-0-0) to approve the Consent Calendar, except for Item No. 4 which was pulled for separate discussion and consideration. AYES: Chang, Goldberg, Greer, Logan, Smith, Ware NOES: None ABSTENTIONS: None ABSENT: None 4. Ben Carlson Memorial Statue - A presentation will be made by members of the Ben Carlson Memorial and Scholarship Foundation about their plan to donate a memorial statue of Life Guard Ben Carlson to the City of Newport Beach. Secretary Logan requested that the aforementioned item be presented to the Commission. Josh Yocam introduced Jake Janz. He reported that they are both on the Board of Directors for the Ben Carlson Memorial and Scholarship Foundation and stated that although it is early in the process, they want to ensure that everyone interested has a voice on this subject. Mr. Yocam provided a printed PowerPoint presentation addressing the Memorial vision, commemorating Ben Carlson’s sacrifice on July 6th, and the goal of promoting ocean safety. Jake Janz, Ben Carlson's brother-in-law, noted that the incident moved the family as well as the community, and indicated that as an artist, he feels a responsibility to carry this project through. He reported that he is a 2-D artist and presented photos of the 3-D concept compiled from images of Ben. He reported reaching out to Sculptor Richard McDonald in hopes that he would entertain the idea of producing the sculpture. Discussions ensued regarding the cost and Mr. Janz reported that the organization plans on raising the funds. He addressed other possible artists such as ADM which has the capability of producing 3-D digital renditions. Mr. Janz addressed the possible scale and size, embracing the area, and building a presence through interactive technology. Mr. Yocam addressed the proposed location, working with the City regarding the possibility of donation bricks, seeking support, ways to bring awareness of ocean safety to the community, making the piece interactive through technology such as QR codes, increasing exposure through social media and planned unveilings. 2 DRAFT Chair Goldberg expressed her appreciation of the presentation and the work done so far. She commented positively on the artists that have been identified and asked regarding the board membership and fundraising efforts. Mr. Yocam commented on fundraising for the Foundation, a kick-starter for the sculpture and the formation of a non-profit. They are proposing approximately $100,000 as their target fundraising goal. Discussion followed regarding fundraising goals, next steps in the process, other plans by the City to commemorate Ben, the Fine Arts Committee’s review of the application in regard to the requirements of Council Policy I-11, and the City Arts Commission working together with the City and Ben Carlson Memorial Foundation to come up with an amenable solution. Commissioner Ware commented positively on the efforts so far and the concept as well as the awareness component and the possibility of offering current ocean conditions through technology. Discussion followed regarding the possibility making the statue interactive by including an informational component about ocean safety. Linking the statue to Surfline and offering immediate information that relates to the ocean conditions and safety was suggested. Council Member Gardner reported that her impulse, as a Council Member, would be to support the Foundation in its efforts rather than creating something separate. In terms of setting up a 501(c)(3), Commissioner Smith suggested a website using .org rather than .com. Mr, Yocam reported that those domains have been garnered. The Arts Commission will be informed by email with status updates. Discussion followed regarding the importance of the Commission formally approving the efforts and it was suggested communicating with Library Services Director Hetherton who will in turn, communicate with staff, the City Attorney and the Commission so that the matter receives the proper review, consideration and action. B. ITEMS FOR REVIEW AND POSSIBLE ACTION 1. Art Placement Consultant - The Fine Arts Ad Hoc Subcommittee reports on the feasibility of using a consultant to assist in the placement of City art. Vice Chair Greer reported that this matter was the result of consideration of the Okazaki statue and that staff has submitted a report recommending using a consultant to assist in the placement of City art. She noted that the requirement has been satisfied and that the City has professional people involved in the placement of City art. Motion made by Vice Chair Greer, seconded by Commissioner Smith, and carried (6-0-0-0) to accept the staff report, as presented, in satisfaction of the Arts Commission's request. AYES: Chang, Goldberg, Greer, Logan, Smith, Ware NOES: None ABSTENTIONS: None ABSENT: None 3 DRAFT 2. Rex Brandt and Joan Irving Commemorative Plaque - The Fine Arts Ad Hoc Subcommittee requests that the Arts Commission recommend the City Council approve the placement of a commemorative marker for Rex Brandt and Joan Irving near the site of their former home, school, and studio "Blue Sky", near the Goldenrod Footbridge. Vice Chair Greer reported working diligently with staff since the last Arts Commission meeting and that staff has prepared an excellent report working with former Mayor Don Webb to help with this project. She presented an overview of the report addressing "Blue Sky", the definition of a structure of historic interest and its designation as a Class 4 and changing same to a Class 5 (a point of historic interest). She asked for the Commission's support of a reclassification to a Class 5 and explained the differences in the designations. Former Mayor Webb commented on the City's list of historical resources and addressed the history of the site and its redevelopment since the passing of Rex Brandt and Joan Irving. He added that a Class 4 designation is no longer appropriate. He suggested recommending to Council that it be changed to a Class 5 to more accurately represent what is there, today. Discussion followed regarding the implications of the change. Commissioner Ware referenced a letter from the neighbors and agreed that a plaque on a boulder is not a representation of the contributions that have been made. It was noted that it would be a separate discussion. Chair Goldberg invited comments from the public on this matter. There being no response, Chair Goldberg closed public comments. Motion made by Vice Chair Greer, seconded by Secretary Logan, and carried (6-0-0-0) to recommend to City Council the reclassification of Rex Brandt and Joan Irving site of their former home, school, and studio "Blue Sky", from a Class 4 to a Class 5. AYES: Chang, Goldberg, Greer, Logan, Smith, Ware NOES: None ABSTENTIONS: None ABSENT: None Vice Chair Greer addressed the placement of the plaque noting that it would commemorate the location and the contributions made by Rex Brandt and Joan Irving to the artistic and cultural heritage of the City. She added that the Fine Arts Ad Hoc Subcommittee proposes that a sunken boulder be used as the marker as shown in Attachments B, C and D of the staff report. The boulder would feature two plaques as shown in Attachments E and F. She addressed other boulder markers used in the City. Discussion followed regarding the ease of readability of the plaques on the boulder, the possibility of adding landscaping, concerns of the neighbors that a boulder does not fit in the neighborhood and is reminiscent of a cemetery. Information about other sunken boulder markers in the City was presented. Library Services Director Hetherton reported speaking to the neighbors and that staff feels that the area can be "spruced up" with landscaping and other improvements and that the City will be committed to keeping the area nicely maintained. Ensuing discussion pertained to the support received for the concept. 4 DRAFT Secretary Logan commented positively on the bridge, expressed concerns with maintenance and suggested placing the plaques on the bridge. Chair Goldberg expressed concerns regarding maintenance and the possibility of dogs relieving themselves on the boulder and suggested something more elevated. Secretary Logan commented on the importance of the walking bridge to the Brandts. Chair Goldberg indicated she is in favor of commemorating with a plaque but suggested additional discussion regarding the height. Chair Goldberg invited comments from the public on this matter. Katherine Hennigan referenced her letter and spoke in opposition to the proposed boulder and commented on dogs relieving themselves in the area as well as overgrown vegetation. She suggested fencing it if a boulder is placed there. She added that her neighbor, Dr. Marcus, suggested an easel look raising the plaque to a level that could be read. She stated that she is a big proponent of long-term commitments and felt it to be a lack of respect when an area is not properly maintained. Jim Mosher felt that Rex Brandt might have found the plaque a bit "busy" and commented on commemorating the people as well as the structure that was there. He questioned the designation on the plaque and felt that people would want to know what was there. Don Webb stated he too would be concerned if he felt that what is being proposed will not be timeless. He commented on the landscaping and addressed the need for improved maintenance in the area. He addressed the proposed sizes of the plaques and their readability as well as a more natural way of displaying the plaques, separate from the bridge. The latter is a historical landmark that should stand on its own and should not be used for recognition of a separate structure. He urged the Commission to consider plaques on a sunken boulder and reiterated this will be an appropriate way to recognize both "Blue Sky" and the Brandts. He suggested working with the residents to come up with modifications that would be more pleasing and acceptable to them. Discussion followed regarding the possibility of using a rock and the top of a French easel, the need to meet the November 1st deadline, modifications to the venue to protect the boulder, options for modifications, adding a small fence around the boulder, the current lack of the project's connection to the City and ensuring that the site is aesthetically pleasing and well-maintained. Vice Chair Greer noted there is plant material that can preserve the area and recommended considering safety for those visiting in the area including small children and stated that an easel is something that children could climb on. She added that a boulder is indestructible, natural, non- invasive and safe. Discussion followed regarding amending the motion to also include maintenance and care of the environment. Motion made by Vice Chair Greer, seconded by Commissioner Chang, to recommend the City Council approve the placement of a commemorative marker for Rex Brandt and Joan Irving near the site of their former home, school, and studio "Blue Sky", near the Goldenrod Footbridge, pursuant to the recommendation in the report and include maintenance and care of the area. 5 DRAFT Commissioner Smith reiterated his concerns regarding the use of a boulder and suggested using an elevated granite pedestal or something similar. He commented on the possibility of considering a suggestion from Dave Aeppli, who has installed sculptures in the park and added that he does not feel comfortable with a boulder on the ground. Substitute Motion by Commissioner Smith, seconded by Secretary Logan, to return the matter to the Ad Hoc Committee to reconsider placing something other than a boulder as the marker. Discussion followed regarding the need to expedite the matter due to the upcoming centennial recognition of Rex Brandt, the possibility of moving ahead with the plaques and reviewing the matter of a pedestal at the next Arts Commission meeting, the need for Council consideration and approval, the possibility of incurring increased costs and the possibility of having a concrete pedestal. Commissioner Chang commented on the residential neighborhood, noted that a boulder can be elegant and stated that whether it is a pedestal or a boulder, dogs will probably use it. She commented positively on the concept of a boulder. The Substitute Motion failed (3-3-0-0). AYES: Logan, Smith, Ware NOES: Chang, Goldberg, Greer ABSTENTIONS: None ABSENT: None The original Motion was restated. Motion made by Vice Chair Greer, seconded by Commissioner Chang, to recommend the City Council approve the placement of a commemorative marker for Rex Brandt and Joan Irving near the site of their former home, school, and studio "Blue Sky", near the Goldenrod Footbridge, pursuant to the recommendation in the report and include maintenance and care of the area. The Motion failed (3-3-0-0). AYES: Chang, Goldberg, Greer NOES: Logan, Smith, Ware ABSTENTIONS: None ABSENT: None Motion made by Commissioner Smith, seconded by Secretary Logan, to move ahead with the bronze plaques and return the matter of the mounting to the Ad Hoc Subcommittee for further study. The Motion failed (3-3-0-0). AYES: Logan, Smith, Ware NOES: Chang, Goldberg, Greer ABSTENTIONS: None ABSENT: None 6 DRAFT Discussion followed regarding the possibility of scheduling a special meeting for the Arts Commission to consider the mounting of the plaques. Mr. Hetherton noted that there will be an appointment of a new Commissioner in October, which could break the tie. Chair Goldberg noted that the Arts Commission is looking to meet within the next two or three weeks, before October. Motion made by Vice Chair Greer, seconded by Commissioner Smith, and carried (6-0-0-0), to move ahead with the bronze plaques and return the matter of the mounting to the Ad Hoc Subcommittee for further study. The Ad Hoc Subcommittee to return with a report to the Commission with an alternative design incorporating the ideas discussed above at a special meeting of the Arts Commission. AYES: Chang, Goldberg, Greer, Logan, Smith, Ware NOES: None ABSTENTIONS: None ABSENT: None Commissioner Chang departed the meeting at 6:41 p.m. 3. Balboa Theatre - Staff, as directed by Chair Goldberg and Commissioner Logan, will report on the potential use of the Balboa Theatre as a fine arts center and the display of art at that location. Chair Goldberg reported that the City has decided to make the Balboa Theater into a Fine Arts center for displays of art and other art-related uses meeting the needs of the community. Chair Goldberg invited comments from the public on this matter. There was no response and Chair Goldberg closed public comments. Discussion followed regarding the proposed use of the theater, Council's direction to staff to explore the feasibility of converting the theater into a multipurpose venue, financial implications, ownership of the property by the City, the necessity for additional study of the matter, and dictating the use of the building within the Arts Master Plan. Motion made by Chair Goldberg, seconded by Secretary Logan, and carried (4-0-1-1), to convert the Balboa Theater primarily for the display and practice of fine arts as well as performing arts. AYES: Goldberg, Logan, Smith, Ware NOES: None ABSTENTIONS: Greer ABSENT: Chang 4. Okazaki Statue - Staff, as directed by the Fine Arts Ad Hoc Subcommittee, will update the Commission on the placement of the statue donated by Newport Beach Sister City Okazaki, Japan. Chair Goldberg stated that she understands that the Okazaki Statue will ultimately be placed at Irvine Terrace Park next to other pieces from Okazaki and that the recommendation is it to place it, temporarily, on the Library grounds. 7 DRAFT Discussion followed regarding the specific site of the temporary location. Chair Goldberg invited comments from the public on this matter. Jim Mosher commented on the process of considering this matter and on the hope that this would have artistic and cultural value but expressed concern that the plaque does not provide information regarding the character. He opined that there should be some clue as to what the statue signifies in order for it to have some cultural significance. Commissioner Smith reported that the Commission is aware of that and reported there will be a low-mounted plaque next to the statue that provides information on the person it represents. It will be placed on the statue at its ultimate location. There were no others wishing to comment and Chair Goldberg closed public comments. Motion made by Secretary Logan, seconded by Vice Chair Greer, and carried (5-0-0-1), to recommend temporary placement of the Okazaki statue in the Bamboo Courtyard at Central Library and permanent placement in Irvine Terrace Park. AYES: Goldberg, Greer, Logan, Smith, Ware NOES: None ABSTENTIONS: None ABSENT: Chang C. MONTHLY REPORTS 1. Cultural Arts Grants Ad Hoc Subcommittee - Vice Chair Arlene Greer (Chair), Commissioner Charles Ware Vice Chair Greer addressed the role and duties of the Cultural Arts Grants Ad Hoc Subcommittee and reported that it is the Arts Commission's intention to distribute funds to qualified organizations with strong projects and programs that will serve the community. She addressed the award of grants and a recent meeting with Commissioner Ware where discussion took place regarding possible potential new evaluation for Cultural Arts Grants including a scoring system that considers all of the criteria included in the application. Grants applications and completion reports are expected on September 26, 2014. Mr. Hetherton has informed all arts organizations and the information is posted on the City's website regarding the availability of grants and encouraging organizations to apply. A report will be provided to the Commission on October 9th with recommendations from the Subcommittee. Mr. Hetherton reported that a completion report has been received from Festival Ballet. Recommendations will be presented to City Council at their second meeting in October. 2. Concert Programming Ad Hoc Subcommittee - Chair Rita Goldberg (Chair) Chair Goldberg reported missing the last concert and thanked Vice Chair Greer for making the introduction in her absence. That concert brought the summer programming to a conclusion. 8 DRAFT Discussion followed regarding the availability of funds to hold concerts in the fall in the Community room, the Rex Brandt commemoration and the grand opening of the sculpture exhibition in the Sculpture Garden. Staff can explore the possibility of holding concerts in the fall. Mr. Hetherton indicated he will do so and addressed having a tangible plan for requesting increased funds during the budget process. 3. Newport Beach Sculpture Garden Ad Hoc Subcommittee - Commissioner Robert Smith (Chair), Chair Rita Goldberg, Commissioner Charles Ware Commissioner Smith announced the upcoming grand opening of the sculpture exhibition in the Sculpture Garden on September 13, 2014, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Formal comments will be held at 3:00 p.m. in the Community room with refreshments available right after. He addressed promotional efforts and presented examples of ads in the Orange County Register and The Current. The Library has issued an alert as well as Sparks, OC. He added that a brochure has been created with an explanation of the various sculptures. There will be docent tours and various art projects and Commissioner Smith encouraged volunteers to participate. He addressed other programs and activities during the event. He reported the availability of an app, MyNB, which provides information on each sculpture. The app can be accessed via a computer or smart phone and some of the artists will be in attendance. 4. Civic Center Art Placement Ad Hoc Subcommittee - Secretary Caroline Logan (Chair), Commissioner Charles Ware Secretary Logan reported that she and Commissioner Ware have been assessing potential placement opportunities of City art for 2-D and 3-D artwork and have contacted the Orange County Museum of Art for possible large-scale loans and are working with the Public Works Department and Council Member Gardner regarding a potential large-sculpture gift. A comprehensive presentation will be provided to the Arts Commission in October including the potential gift. She asked that this be placed on the agenda for the Commission's October 9th meeting. 5. Arts Master Plan Steering Committee - Chair Rita Goldberg(Chair) , Vice Chair Arlene Greer, Secretary Logan Pat Wayne, Deputy Director of Arts OC, provided a status update on the Arts Master Plan. She addressed focus groups with different segments of the community, stakeholder interviews and an upcoming public meeting on September 29th at the OASIS Community Center at 6:30 p.m. Regarding the latter, attendees are encouraged to RSVP. Subsequently, a survey will be issued to the general public and the community input process should be completed by mid-October. Recommendations will be presented to Council on November 25th. Brief discussion followed regarding the method of distribution for the survey. It was noted that the survey will be online and that efforts will be made to promote it. A request was made to send out a press release regarding same. 6. Arts Foundation Liaison Ad Hoc Subcommittee - Commissioner Robert Smith Commissioner Smith announced the next meeting of the Subcommittee on September 15th and reported they will finalizing plans for the October 11th Art in the Park event. He reported that eighty artists have already signed up and encouraged Members of the Commission to help. 9 DRAFT 7. Juried Art Exhibition Ad Hoc Subcommittee - Vice Chair Arlene Greer (Chair), Commissioner Judy Chang, Secretary Caroline Logan Vice Chair Greer reported that the Subcommittee has not yet sunsetted but that it is not currently working. Chair Goldberg suggested sun-setting until January, 2015. 8. Fine Arts Ad Hoc Subcommittee - Vice Chair Arlene Greer (Chair), Commissioner Judy Chang Vice Chair Greer reported on an event on September 8th and that artist Michaell Magrutsche’s work is currently on display at the Central Library lobby. She reported that staff provided a well- received lecture, reception and exhibition of the works. She thanked Secretary Logan and Sister Cities for the exhibition of works from Sister City Okazaki. Additionally, Vice Chair Greer presented an update on the Rex Brandt Centennial Celebration noting that the event, which is open to the public, will be held on November 1st and will begin in the Friend's Room of the Central Library with a lecture at 1:00 p.m. and a panel. At the conclusion, a reception will be held in the Bamboo Courtyard from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. The exhibition will be available from November 1st to December 15th in the Central Library lobby. She thanked Gordon McLelland for curating the event and for his work on the plaques. 9. Art Owned by the City of Newport Beach Ad Hoc Subcommittee - Vice Chair Arlene Greer (Chair), Commissioner Judy Chang, Secretary Caroline Logan Vice Chair Greer provided a report addressing art available for auction and wall art that will be offered to City staff. She commented on remaining art, announced an upcoming meeting with the Storage Committee and noted that a report will be presented to the Arts Commission at its next meeting. She thanked those involved with the project. VI. CITY ARTS COMMISSION ANNOUNCEMENTS OR MATTERS WHICH MEMBERS WOULD LIKE PLACED ON A FUTURE AGENDA FOR DISCUSSION, ACTION OR REPORT (NON- DISCUSSION ITEM) Vice Chair Greer indicated that museum bus tours report will be provided in October or November and encouraged input from the public. Secretary Logan asked that consideration of a potential donation of a large sculpture be placed on the Commission's next agenda. In response to an inquiry, Secretary Logan reported that the offer is firm and that the Commission's responsibility is to provide placement of the sculpture. It was noted that the Fine Arts Subcommittee would approve the donation according to the application form and then the matter will go to the Civic Center Art Placement Subcommittee for placement recommendations. VII. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS Jim Mosher commented on the de-accessioning of City-owned art and hoped that the Subcommittee's recommendations would have been presented to the Commission for the public to be informed. Additionally, he applauded Josh Yocam and Jake Janz, for their work regarding the Ben Carlson Memorial Sculpture and reported that the City had begun raising money after the 10 DRAFT tragedy. He added there is a website asking for donations to the Ben Carlson Memorial Scholarship Fund. He commented on fundraising efforts through the Fire Department and suggested making the differentiation between the various funds clear. He commented on the concept and suggested reaching out to other artists for ideas as to how to memorialize a fallen lifeguard. He opined that the concept is "commercial-looking" and suggested that something more artistic may have been found. He referenced the Balboa Village Advisory Committee and their consideration of design guidelines for Balboa Village. He opined that should be a function of the Arts Commission that has been neglected over the years. He reported that it was suggested that the Arts Commission review the aesthetics and that Council Member Henn agreed that the Arts Commission should have an advisory role. He noted that the item may be presented to the Commission. VIII. ADJOURNMENT – 7:21 p.m. Submitted by: _________________________ 11